Let us continue our question of the day series with day twelve.

What is the purpose of the model database (and does it look great in a swimsuit)?

The model database is an aptly named template for all of the newly created databases on your instance.  If you wish for every database to be configured with a certain option, such as autogrowth of 64 MB, then you would set the option on the model database.  At that point, every new database would have the same autogrowth setting.  Keep in mind, if you change the model database at a later date, the previously created databases will not inherit the changes only databases created from that point forward.

Also, keep in mind that there are a few options that cannot be set on the model database such as enabling change data capture.  Enjoy!